1983 Volkswagen GTI Rabbit GTi review from North America
"It's like a bunny rabbit, with spikey teeth"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Front and rear struts.
Exhaust fell off.
Front wheel bearings repeatedly.
Car required extra work due to previous owners neglect.
Blew up clutch.
Front brakes and master cylinder.
Rear backing plates damaged by "trained mechanics"
Sunroof leaked.
General comments?
I have owned this car for several years, and through all the grief it has given me I would not get rid of it. My little German car has put the fun back into my daily commute. I look for the twisty roads to drive.
I have done lots of upgrades for a reasonable price, from motor and trans, to suspension and brakes.
If you are taller, buy some Recaro seats or seats from a Scirocco, you will be happy that you did.
The original motor and trans delivered 36mpg. The motor/trans combo now give 30mpg, but that's a small price to pay for the performance gains.
Best bang for the buck. I love this car. Good aftermarket support. People always asking about it.
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| While the GTI may not be the best car in any one category, it is the perfect combination |
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| Peppy, Mean Little German Machine! |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Model year | 1983 |
| Year of manufacture | 1983 |
| First year of ownership | 2006 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2009 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.8L Manual |
| Performance marks | |
| Reliability marks | |
| Comfort marks | |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | |
| Distance when acquired | 170000 kilometres |
| Most recent distance | 210000 kilometres |
| Date of Entry | 13th October, 2009 |